‘Major Step’: French MPs Vote in Favour of Bill to Ban Social Media for Under-15s

In what supporters are calling a “major step” for child protection, French lawmakers have voted in favour of a bill that would ban social media use for children under the age of 15. The decision places France at the forefront of a growing global movement to regulate digital platforms and shield young users from the psychological and social harms linked to excessive online exposure.

The vote reflects mounting concern across Europe over the impact of social media on children’s mental health, privacy, and development—and signals a tougher regulatory era for tech companies operating in the region.




What the New French Bill Proposes

Under the proposed law, children under 15 would be prohibited from accessing social media platforms unless they receive verifiable parental consent. Platforms that fail to comply could face heavy fines and regulatory penalties.

The bill shifts responsibility onto technology companies, requiring them to implement robust age-verification systems rather than relying on self-declared ages. Lawmakers argue that current safeguards are ineffective and easily bypassed by minors.

If fully enacted, the legislation would apply to major platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and X, fundamentally changing how young users interact with social media in France.




Why France Is Taking Action Now

French MPs supporting the bill cite a growing body of evidence linking heavy social media use among children to:

Anxiety and depression

Cyberbullying and online harassment

Sleep disruption and attention problems

Exposure to harmful or inappropriate content


Lawmakers argue that voluntary measures by tech companies have failed to protect minors adequately. The vote follows increasing pressure from parents, educators, and child psychologists who warn that digital environments are evolving faster than regulations.

Calling the vote a “major step,” supporters say the law prioritizes children’s well-being over platform profits.




A Wider European Trend

France’s move aligns with a broader European push to regulate big tech, particularly when it comes to children’s safety. The EU’s Digital Services Act already places stricter obligations on platforms, but France’s bill goes further by proposing a clear age-based restriction.

Other countries, including Spain and Norway, are exploring similar measures. If France successfully enforces the ban, it could become a model for other European nations, strengthening calls for continent-wide age limits on social media use.

The vote also reflects Europe’s willingness to challenge Silicon Valley giants more aggressively than other regions.




Supporters See Protection, Not Punishment

Proponents of the bill stress that the goal is not to punish children, but to create healthier boundaries in an increasingly digital world. Many argue that under-15s lack the emotional maturity to navigate algorithm-driven platforms designed to maximize engagement.

French officials have framed the bill as comparable to age restrictions on alcohol or driving—reasonable limits designed to protect young people until they are better equipped to handle risks.

Parents’ groups have largely welcomed the move, saying it gives families stronger tools to manage their children’s online lives.




Critics Raise Practical Concerns

Despite broad support, the bill has sparked debate. Critics question whether a social media ban for under-15s is technically enforceable without infringing on privacy.

Key concerns include:

The effectiveness and ethics of age-verification technology

Risks of increased data collection on users

Whether children will simply find workarounds

Potential limits on free expression


Some lawmakers also worry that responsibility may shift unfairly onto families and platforms without addressing deeper issues such as digital education and online culture.




Impact on Tech Companies

If enforced, the law would mark a significant regulatory challenge for social media companies. Platforms would need to redesign onboarding processes, invest in age-checking systems, and potentially lose a sizable portion of their user base in France.

For companies already under scrutiny for data practices and algorithm transparency, the bill adds another layer of pressure. Failure to comply could result in fines and reputational damage—particularly in a market as influential as the EU.

Tech firms are expected to lobby heavily as the bill moves toward final approval and implementation.




What Happens Next

The bill still requires final procedural steps before becoming law, including review by France’s constitutional authorities. If approved, a transition period is expected to allow platforms to adapt.

Implementation will be closely watched both inside and outside France. Success could accelerate similar legislation across Europe and beyond, while enforcement challenges could shape future revisions.

Either way, the vote has already reshaped the conversation around children and digital safety.




Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Online Child Protection

The decision by French MPs to vote in favour of a bill banning social media for under-15s represents a bold and symbolic shift in how governments approach online safety. Described as a “major step,” the move reflects growing impatience with self-regulation and a stronger resolve to protect children in the digital age.

As debates over enforcement, privacy, and freedom continue, France’s action sends a clear message: when it comes to children’s well-being, the era of hands-off social media regulation may be coming to an end.